Tri Eagle Sales Sponsors Conservation Summit

Tri Eagle Sales Sponsors Conservation Summit

by | Sep 30, 2020 | Events, News

Anheuser-Busch Distributor Has Long Been a Community Partner

Another Founding Corporate Member has extended support at the Gold level for our upcoming Conservation Summit. We welcome Tri-Eagle Sales as a sponsor.

Tri-Eagle’s corporate mission is “making friends is our business,” and they demonstrate this by sponsoring hundreds of events, donating to causes and serving on boards around Ocala. As a Founder and Gold Sponsor, they are voicing strong support for open spaces and beautiful places.

Tri-Eagle Sales has been the leading beverage wholesaler in the North and North Central Florida area for a quarter of a century. They proudly market, sell, and distribute Anheuser-Busch InBev brands such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Goose Island, and Stella Artois. Their portfolio of world-class craft and import brands is led by local Tallahassee brewer Proof Brewing Co., and includes well-known brands such as Cigar City, Oskar Blues, Founders, SweetWater, and Duvel Moortgat. In addition to beer they sell and market a diverse line of ciders, wine, and spirits and offer a specialty beverage portfolio that includes gluten-free beers as well as non-alcohol products.

The sponsorship of Tri-Eagle, along with Brook Ledge Horse Transportation, Ocala Horse Properties, Showcase Properties, Cone Distributing, Bridlewood Farm and Newport Hay enables us to bring you top-notch speakers on the subject of farmland conservation for the November 19 event at a world class facility – Golden Ocala. Be sure to register for the Summit! You can attend online or in person.

Tri Eagle Sales is proud to sponsor this summit to continue the great work of Horse Farms Forever supporting the preservation of our horse farms and the associated equestrian life that makes Ocala so unique and special.

Susie Busch-Transou

Tri-Eagle Sales
Summit Info

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

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Ocala Horse Properties is Conservation Summit Gold Sponsor

Ocala Horse Properties is Conservation Summit Gold Sponsor

by | Sep 23, 2020 | Events, News

Equestrian Real Estate Firm is Sold on Farmland Preservation

You’ve seen their handsome faces on billboards everywhere: brothers Rob and Chris Desino and Matt Varney – partners in Ocala Horse Properties. Since the founding of HFF in 2018, they have gone to lengths to show their passion for our mission of preserving the character and culture that horses and horse farms bring to Ocala/Marion County.

Now, they have stepped up to the plate as Gold Sponsors of our first Conservation Summit. The support of Ocala Horse Properties and the rest of our sponsors ensures that the Summit, to take place on November 19 at Golden Ocala, will be a first-class event.

Although it is easy to see why a firm specializing in equestrian real estate would want to see horse farms and farmland continue to thrive in Marion County, the partners are connected to Horse Farms Forever and our mission in much deeper ways. Rob is an HFF Founder, Chris and Matt are Charter Members, and both Rob and Matt are Directors.

“Horse Farms Forever is instrumental in monitoring and advocating for the protection of horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area in Ocala. Turning the Farmland Preservation Area into another mass of concrete strip plazas is not necessary and certainly not desirable.” Rob Desino

The partners are all horsemen, farm owners and active members of our local equestrian community. Chris and Rob are owners of Deniro Z, a standout 5 Star event horse, expertly campaigned by Liz Halliday-Sharp, also an HFF member. Liz and Deniro Z recently won the 4 Star at Plantation Field International Horse Trials. Matt enjoys riding recreationally, but he lives his equestrian competitiveness vicariously through his wife, Dr. Courtney Varney, DVM. Matt enjoys accompanying Courtney, an accomplished FEI Dressage rider, USDF gold medalist, and equine veterinarian, on as many competitions as his busy schedule will allow.

Ocala Horse Properties has been the top Ocala farm realtor for more than a decade, representing the largest portfolio of Ocala Farms available. Their success is built on a love for people and the community. They are big supporters of equestrian events both here in Ocala and in Wellington, where they operate a sister company, Wellington Equestrian Realty.

Once again, thank you, Ocala Horse Properties, for demonstrating your commitment to the open spaces and beautiful places of Marion County.

Be sure to register for the Summit! You can attend online or in person.

I was motivated to join to protect an area that I find to be one of the most irreplaceable destinations in the entire country; an area where horse pasture is uniquely more valuable per acre as farmland than if a developer was able to purchase it. Coming from a family of developers I know how incredibly rare that is.

Matt Varney

Ocala Horse Properties
Summit Info

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join Today!
Join or Donate Now
Behind the Golden Gates

Behind the Golden Gates

by | Aug 24, 2020 | News

Golden Ocala/WEC Renew as Founding Members

The World Equestrian Center and Golden Ocala are major enhancements to our equine-powered economy and lifestyle here in Marion County. The Roberts Family, owners of both, were one of our first Founding Members, and recently demonstrated their commitment Horse Farms Forever’s mission by renewing again at the Founder Level. Please join us in thanking the Roberts Family, Golden Ocala, & World Equestrian Center for caring about preserving our open spaces and beautiful places for future generations.

Let’s shine the spotlight on the contributions that these monumental facilities will make to the Horse Capital of the World® as the community anticipates the opening of the World Equestrian Center in 2021.

Quality. Class. Distinction.

The World Equestrian Center (WEC) is the largest equestrian complex in North America, encompassing over 4,000 pristine acres in the heart of horse country. Within those 4,000 acres, The WEC currently inhabits 378 acres, with 300 more acres in reserve. It is a world-class multi-indoor and -outdoor arena facility with state-of the-art amenities that can accommodate numerous different disciplines within the Equine Industry.

This state-of-the-art Ocala Equestrian Center is designed to offer the ultimate competition experience for both horse and rider. As a professionally operated, family-owned enterprise, the WEC illustrates the passion and commitment to equestrian sports in the United States. It is a true destination. The event grounds will feature a luxurious six-story, 5-star hotel, located at the heart of the equestrian resort. The brand-new hotel will feature 248 extra large suites, some equipped with balconies where guests can take in world-class equestrian events in luxury and comfort. The hotel will also feature retail space, where guests and visitors will find a high-end boutique experience just minutes from the competition rings and barns. On-site dining options will include several sit-down restaurants, including a fine dining restaurant with seating for 500 guests.

Attention to Detail

World Equestrian Center and World Equestrian Estates will feature approximately 1.5 million square feet of riding space. The grounds will be manicured with mature trees and hundreds of thousands of flowers. On-site greenhouses will keep the flowers blooming year round. Visitors and competitors alike will find a park-like atmosphere around the grand prix area and throughout the grounds. Paver sidewalks and a tree-lined entrance enhance the park-like feel at World Equestrian Center.

State-of-the-Art Amenities 

World Equestrian Center Ocala is set to be the largest equestrian complex in the U.S., with 4,000 acres that consist of amenities that take this venue from just another arena to a prime destination. And the best part, those amenities are constantly expanding:

  • Six-story, five-star, pet-friendly hotel with 248 extra-large suites; a spa, salon and fitness center; indoor and outdoor bars, fire pits and fireplaces; and 18,000-square-feet of attached retail space
  • Three-acre grand outdoor stadium
  • Riding trails spanning scenic areas and schooling areas
  • Multiple dining options, including a 500-seat restaurant and a 10-seat private dining room, both in the on-site hotel, as well as four field concessions and on-site catering
  • Exclusive membership opportunities via Golden Ocala
  • On-site chapel featuring nondenominational services for 100 people at a time
  • RV park with 278 camper spaces, water and power hook-ups, and WiFi
  • 2,100 permanent stalls
  • Four indoor, climate-controlled arenas that each seat 1,500 people — including 300 VIP, ringside seats with top-notch cuisine
  • 21 outdoor arenas with all-weather footing and grass
  • Two grand outdoor arenas with stadium seating
  • One grand arena for over 8,000 spectators
  • Second grand arena that accommodates over 3,000 spectators
  • 40,000-square-foot veterinary clinic with specialty vets and dog groomers
  • Convenience store
  • Coin-operated laundry facility

We hope to see you there at the opening events in 2021! You can stay informed by visiting the World Equestrian Center website and visiting them on all the social media channels.

Sources:

  1. https://worldequestriancenter.com/locations/ocala-florida/
  2. https://www.goldenocala.com/blog/equestrian/world-equestrian-center-ocala-update/

The Fun Starts in January

Get ready for 12 weeks of World Equestrian Center hunter/jumper horse shows that run from January 5 through March 28:

  • $10,000 Non-Pro Hunter Derby 2’6
  • $10,000 3’ Hunter Derby OPEN
  • $10,000 3’ Hunter Derby NON PRO
  • $30,000 World Equestrian Center Hunter Derby
  • $10,000 World Equestrian Center Pony Hunter Derby
  • $25,000 World Equestrian Center Welcome Stake – Regional Standard
  • $75,000 World Equestrian Center Grand Prix – American Standard
  • $25,000 Future Prix

Prize money for these weekly events is expected to be over $400,000 per week, and overall circuit money and prizes are slated to be nearly $5 million. More than 100 divisions will be offered, from opportunity classes to Grand Prix. For a proposed prize list, visit HorseShowing.com.

Multiple dining options, from field concessions to a 500 seat restaurant.

2100 permanent stalls, all 12×12 or 12×15. 17 of the 23 barns are in climate-controlled spaces.

Miles of groomed bridle paths. Dressage and Jumping lessons offered on site for residents of Golden Ocala and the future World Equestrian Estates.

So much to do, see and experience. Something for everyone.

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join Today!
Join or Donate Now
Renewing Founders Explain The Relevance of HFF in These Times

Renewing Founders Explain The Relevance of HFF in These Times

by | Jul 10, 2020 | News

In Horse Farms Forever’s short history, we have been faithfully supported by a core group of Founders. This week, the following Founders chose once again to affirm their commitment to our mission. Here, they share why, in these times, the need for a watchdog organization is even more relevant than it was during the toll road threat of 2018.

Scroll through to read their words…and join us in thanking them!

Tom & Amy Grabe, Canine Chronicle

Founders 2018-2020

“Over the past 20+ years, we have seen Ocala and Marion County change significantly. The city has grown and development in the county has grown along with it. During this time, the Farm Preservation Area has served as a magnet that drew many of our new residents to Marion County. We must protect this unique blend of open spaces and beautiful places for generations to come. It defines Marion County as the Horse Capital of the World.”

Rob Desino, Ocala Horse Properties

Founder 2018-2020

“Thank goodness that Horse Farms Forever is there for us advocating for the protection of horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area in Ocala. Turning the Farmland Preservation Area into another mass of concrete strip plazas is not necessary and certainly not desirable.”

 

Paul & Ann Kaplan, Southwind Farm

Founders 2018-2020

“I am so grateful Horse Farms Forever has created a firewall between urban sprawl and the preservation of horse farms in Marion County.
Without horse farms, there are no horses!”

Charlotte Weber, Live Oak Stud

Founder 2018-2020

“The creation of the Farmland Preservation Area was instrumental in preserving our equine industry. Horse Farms Forever is instrumental in this endeavor and I greatly support their vision, community involvement, and goals.”

Mary Jane Hunt, Horsefeathers!

Founder 2018-2020

“Developers are knocking loudly on the doors of government seeking exemptions to violate the Farmland Preservation Area. We have seen two just in the first half of 2020. The developers want to pave it; we want to save it! “

Bernard Little, Misty Lane Cattle Company

Founder 2018-2020

“There’s an old saying, “If you don’t have a seat at the table, then you are on the menu.”  For far too long, the Farmland Preservation Area has been on the menu. Horse Farms Forever now has a seat at the table advocating for the protection of horse farms and the Farmland Protection Area.  Our strength comes through our members.  Please join!”

Kurt & Janet Geisselman, Naked Horse Farm

Charter Members 2019-2020

“We are very disturbed and concerned by the continuing pressure to develop this area. We believe the FPA boundary should be etched in stone. Once it is erased, it can never be replaced.”

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join Today!
Join or Donate Now
Why the Sport Horse Community is Investing in Marion County

Why the Sport Horse Community is Investing in Marion County

by | May 18, 2020 | GO-WEC Plan Amendment, News

The sport horse community is here to stay, investing for the long haul in a place that enables their horses to thrive and perform at their best. We thank founding member Linda Bammann of Laughing Horse Farm, Inc. for her continued support of our mission to preserve the unique environment of the Horse Capital of the World®.
Here is her letter of support:

Laughing Horse Farm

May 17, 2020

To Whom It May Concern,

As an avid sport horse enthusiast, I am adding my support for the thoughtful consideration of the preservation of the Farmland Preservation Area as designated in Ocala and Marion County. The special component of Ocala is the artful melding of all horse sports within a community that respects all aspects of good horsemanship from breeding, raising, training, competing and retiring these special partners after years of service. From world class veterinary and farrier service to exceptional training and competing options, Ocala is second to none in the opportunities it provides for the sport horse participate.

After semi-retiring from a 25-year career in the financial services industry, my husband and I had a choice of many areas to relocate. We chose Ocala because of its special beauty and open spaces where horses could be horses for 23 hours per day. Because of the turn out, peace and quiet of their surroundings and the extraordinary equine support of the community, they can rise to their potential for that one hour per day that they work to excel at their designated sport. Their mental and physical achievements are quite unique in this special place.

The Farmland Preservation Area at the heart of Ocala creates the certainty that this environment will always remain at the core of the horse industry of Marion County. It is the reason that horse owners and equine business efforts are willing to invest in owning, developing and operating horse related activities in this very region. Without it, Ocala becomes one more stopping point in the never-ending journey of horse shows and horse activities. This is not the fabric that Ocala represented to us when we first moved and invested in our community.

For this reason, I was excited to become a founding member of Horse Farms Forever. The education of and efforts towards preserving our equine community for generations to follow allow me to know that this very special melting pot of equine activities will always be appreciated and preserved.

Please do everything you can to preserve our special Farmland Preservation area as it exists today and resist the temptation to allow an erosion of its core principle. Having lived in New York City for many years in my career, I always marveled at the foresight of the city planners that allocated and preserved Central Park in the middle of that sprawling metropolis. Please do whatever you can such that someday people will marvel at your foresight to have preserved such a special part of the equine fabric of Ocala and Marion County.

Very best regards,

Linda Bammann

Owner of Laughing Horse Farm, Inc.

 

Always Watching

We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members’ interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County.

Join the herd. Every voice matters.

Join or Donate Now